I stayed at the Mantra on Astor Terrace as it was the best option close to my workplace. I’d stayed before and had a poor experience, but decided to give it another chance. Unfortunately, this stay was worse.
Based on my previous experience, I requested a quiet room but was given one on the first floor facing the street. While the road noise wasn’t constant, it started early and went late. The bigger issue was that the blockout curtains were about half a meter short of the opening. As a woman travelling alone, I felt uncomfortable! I was able to be seen from the complex across the street while sitting on the bed watching TV.
I have never complained in a hotel before, but I went to reception to ask for another room and offered to pay for an upgrade. The staff member was rude and dismissive, insisting all rooms were the same — which clearly isn’t true. In my frustration, I then then asked for a drink to take back to my room and was told “the machine was unavailable”. I didn’t understand what he meant by that, but others were clearly enjoying beers in the area,. It felt deliberately unhelpful (or perhaps he thought a woman wouldn’t want a beer?)
The room was small and not great to spend time in, and over three nights, it was NEVER serviced. I didn’t want the towel changed or bed making, but I do expect the bin to be emptied and the room refreshed.
This wasn’t the worst hotel stay I’ve had, but it definitely doesn’t deserve its current rating. I wouldn’t stay here again.